PEST
 
   NAME
     Small Citrus Butterfly
     Eleppone anactus
 
   ORDER
     Lepidoptera
 
   FAMILY
     Papilionidae

Description of the Pest
Adults are butterflies with 75mm wingspans. Male and females have black, grey and white markings on the forewings and red and blue markings on the hindwings. Eggs are laid singly on citrus plants. Caterpillars are dark brown, with three rows of yellowish spots along their bodies; they protrude two red “horns” from behind their heads when disturbed, exuding an offensive, concentrated citrus odour.

Appearance and Distribution of the Pest
A native pest, common throughout Australia though rarely seen in Western Australia.

Life Cycle
This insect has a Holometabolous life cycle, ie. When metamorphosis is observed during the pupal stage.
The pupa forms a 50mm chrysalis attached to the host by a silk pad.

Period of Activity
Most active during late Summer and early Autumn, during periods of new growth.

Damage Caused
Larvae eat the leaves; small plants are particularly susceptible.

Susceptible Plants
Apart from citrus, some members of the Rutaceae family are affected, including Choisya ternata and Eriostemon myoporoides.

Cultural Control
Remove caterpillars by hand, with small infestations.

Biological Control
Parasitic wasps and predacious bugs destroy larvae.

Chemical Control
Spray with Maldison or Carbaryl.
Note
Always read the label for registration details and direction of use prior to application of any chemicals.